Anker's Make Along - Summer Shirt Yarn Ideas

Welcome to the Anker’s Make Along. We have selected three fabulous DK-weight cotton yarns that are perfect for the PetiteKnit Summer Shirt pattern – all with different price points, finishes, and personalities. Whether you're after soft and slouchy, clean and crisp, or something beautifully budget-friendly, there’s a yarn here with your name on it.

Rowan Cotton Cashmere

This one’s a treat! Cotton Cashmere is a luxurious blend of 85% wool and 15% cashmere. The addition of cashmere gives the yarn a slightly heathered look and an extra softness. 

It’s got a gentle drape and lovely stitch definition, which makes the yoke detail on the Anker’s Summer Shirt really shine. The palette is soft and classic – very Rowan – and the final fabric feels cool, breathable and luxurious. It comes in 50g balls, is £8.99 and there are 125 metres on each ball.

If you want a top that feels a little bit special, this is the yarn. It’s soft on the skin, flattering to wear, and knits up beautifully.

King Cole Cottonsoft DK

I have a real soft spot for King Cole Cottonsoft DK – not least because I made an Anker’s Summer Shirt in it last summer (read the blog post). It’s 100% cotton and, as you can tell from the name, it is super soft.

It gives a lovely, even fabric and at just £4.50 for a 100g ball it’s incredible value. This yarn is perfect if you’re new to garments, or just want a relaxed top you’ll wear on repeat. I have worn my lots and washed it too, it still looks fabulous. 

The colour range is huge, there are plenty of neutrals, brights and pastels to play with!

Rowan Summerlite DK

If you like your stitches to look sharp and tidy, Rowan Summerlite DK is the one for you. This yarn is 100% Egyptian cotton – beautifully smooth with a matte finish and superb stitch definition.

It has a slightly firmer feel than the others, giving your finished tee a crisp, tailored look that holds its shape. Ideal if you like a polished finish or want to show off that yoke detail with real clarity. 

This yarn is perfect for warm weather and everyday wear. It’s neat, reliable and comes in such a gorgeous range of shades. Plus, shall I tell you the best thing about Summerlite DK? We have some stunning shades in our clearance section that are just £3.50 per 50g ball. Standard shades are just £5.50 a ball!

I can’t wait to see what you choose!

Yarn Quantities Ready Reckoner
Sara has worked out the approximate quantities required for the Anker's Summer Shirt in King Cole Cottonsoft Dk, Rowan Summerlite Dk and Rowan Cotton Cashmere: